Hysterectomy Surgery
Many women experience pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding because of fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis and other conditions. There are many ways to treat these gynecological problems, including hysterectomy.
Hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed major surgeries among reproductive-age women. The procedure to remove the uterus and cervix can be performed to treat an array of reproductive-related conditions.
Make an Appointment with a Women’s Health Expert
Our OB/GYN providers offer expert surgical services for hysterectomy and other female health issues. Find a provider and schedule an appointment today
What Happens During a Hysterectomy?
The hysterectomy surgery removes the uterus and cervix. The surgeon may also remove one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes. If you have not yet reached menopause, a hysterectomy means you will no longer have a period or be able to get pregnant. Hysterectomy surgery is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient will be asleep during surgery.
Reasons for Hysterectomy
There are a number of conditions that can be addressed with hysterectomy surgery. These include:
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Chronic pelvic conditions, including pelvic pain or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Endometriosis
- Gender affirmation for transgender and non-binary individuals
- Gynecologic cancer
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Uterine fibroids
- Uterine prolapse
Hysterectomy Types
The uterus is always removed during a hysterectomy. In some cases, surgeons may also need to remove one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes or other parts of the reproductive system. Your gynecologist will discuss the best type of hysterectomy for you. Some of the types of hysterectomy include:
- Total hysterectomy: This is the most common type of hysterectomy. The gynecologic surgeon removes the whole uterus including the cervix, but not the fallopian tubes or ovaries.
- Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy: Removes the uterus, cervix, and both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
- Supracervical hysterectomy: Also called subtotal or partial hysterectomy, the surgeon removes the body of the uterus while leaving the cervix whole.
- Radical hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix and the top part of the vagina. The pelvic lymph nodes may also be removed for women with cancer.
- Radical hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy: Often used to treat endometrial cancer, this procedure removes the uterus, cervix and both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Hysterectomy Methods
If your gynecologist recommends a hysterectomy, it’s important that you learn about the range of surgical options. Your doctor will talk with you about the best method for your hysterectomy based on your personal needs and goals.
University Hospitals offers advanced minimally invasive surgery for hysterectomy. This type of surgery involves smaller incisions with reduced risk of blood loss and scarring, less pain, and faster recovery time than traditional open surgery.